Great Klondike International Outhouse Race

August 12, 2017

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Teams of five costume their outhouse as well as themselves and run a course that involves physical challenges, hilarity and some serious racing! A Dawson tradition since the 1970’s, the Outhouse Race began as a serious race 5km race between distance runners. Nowadays, all ages and running abilities are invited to participate in this fun-filled afternoon.

The “outhouses” used, are not typical outhouses, but are wheeled metal structures that resemble outdoor latrines. They are outfitted with rickshaw-like bars to aid with pushing through the streets. Outhouses are available through the Klondike Visitors Association and can be rented for the day.

Teams and their outhouse dress up in a theme and are run by a judging panel where they give their best team cheer for the crowd. Judges assess teams based on their creativity, design, theme and team spirit.

Some great themes from the past years include: “Farts Canada” (a Parks Canada team), “The Smell of the Yukon” (a play on the popular Robert Service poem), and “Dumped at the Altar” (a team of crying wedding clad runners).

After judging has completed, teams line up and the race is on. Teams follow a predetermined route which may involve some obstacles, scavenging, but definitely involve some speed defying outhouses.

We invite you to come out and watch, or better yet, run in this hilarious and exciting afternoon!